Children of Salford shown the world of work

The Foundation's Business Education Partnership (BEP) has introduced Salford schools to the 'World of Work' in a new education programme.

All Hallows' School speaking face to face with employees

The programme, running in schools all over Salford, Bolton and Bury since January, gives students the chance to sit face to face with employees from a wide range of industries.

The schools are given a taste of careers, and given 30 minutes slots to quiz employees on their jobs.

Children are able to learn about different careers within each industry and what entry requirements and qualifications are needed to get there.

Charlotte Lunt, BEP Co-ordinator, said: “We go to high schools, so the children are in years 9 and 10. We’re trying to open their minds to what careers are actually out there. They’re in a little bubble, and businesses are in a little bubble, so we’re trying to make a cross over.

“Most kids only know about what their mums and dads do, or the normal well known jobs, like a nurse or fireman. And of course a lot of teachers have gone from being in school themselves to studying to getting a job back in a school.

“We get business owners from all sorts of careers. They bring props and photographs and organise some activities for the kids. They talk about their jobs and how they’ve made it to there after school. We give the kids question booklets to help them get the most out of it.”

The types of business’ that have attended the BEP World of Work days range from medical, admin, financial and more, with children getting to meet 6-10 employees a day.

“It’s had a really positive reaction. Kids are pushed by government to hit targets but sometimes don't have the experience or skills to feel confident in the outside world,” Miss Lunt added.

Jade, a Year Nine student from All Hallows’ RC High School, said: “I had no idea about the range of jobs people do in a company like Virgin Media or a legal firm like DWF. Today's really opened my eyes to the range of jobs out there.”

Employees have also found the programme to be a huge success.

Tom, a Virgin Media employee said, “I have a better understanding of young people’s views on apprenticeships and we need to do to make them more attractive and accessible.”